Hatem Ben Arfa, who started for France against Sweden in Euro 2012, was integral to Newcastle's fine run in the second half of last season. Photo: Reuters

Following a strong Premier League season in which Newcastle United finished ahead of Chelsea and Liverpool, the Magpies remain involved in rather notable transfer speculation.

According to The Times, Chelsea are targeting Hatem Ben Arfa. The French winger is currently playing in Euro 2012, and is coming off a solid season with Newcastle.

Though Newcastle might be tempted to part with the 25-year-old given the hefty bid they could expect from the Blues, Ben Arfa doesn't appear to be on his way out of St. James' Park just yet.

If I do not have a really, really serious proposal, I'll stay, Ben Arfa told L'Equipe. If a big club comes, but does not propose something interesting--that is to say, the coach really wants me--I'll stay.

If I do not feel the confidence of the [interested club's] coach 100%, I will not leave. I still have three-year contract. But I know it can go fast.

The Sun recently reported that Newcastle have made an offer for Vurnon Anita, but appear to be short of Ajax's asking price. The 23-year-old Dutch star is capable of playing at left back and defensive midfielder. Anita's fee seems to be in the range of £4 million and £8 million.

Daily Mail reports that the Magpies are linked to John Guidetti and Luuk de Jong.

Manchester City have loaned out Guidetti to three separate clubs, but the Swedish striker is regarded as a tremendous talent with a bright future.

The 20-year-old is coming off an excellent spell at Feyenoord in which he scored 20 goals and added eight assists in 23 matches. Swansea City have also reportedly shown interest in Guidetti.

If a deal for Guidetti falls through, de Jong would be a more than acceptable alternative. The 21-year-old striker has been invaluable to FC Twente, and De Jong already has seven appearances with the Netherlands.

De Jong has a price tag of about a £10 million. While that is probably an acceptable valuation for Newcastle, the Magpies may have competition from some big-name clubs as Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham have all reportedly shown interest the high-scoring forward.

Alan Pardew might want to not just add de Jong, but his Twente teammate, as well. ESPN reported that Brazilian centre back Douglas, who is considered among the best defenders in the Eredivisie, is looking for an exit from the Dutch league.

Five clubs are interested and there's a bigger club than Newcastle, said the 24-year-old to NuSport. I cannot still say anything about it, but I hope soon to have my new club.